High in the mountains of Costa Rica, where the clouds brush the treetops and the air chills with evening, you might not expect to hear the call of a seabird. But for the critically endangered Black-capped Petrel, also known as the Diablotín (little devil) by locals, these peaks are a vital part of their life cycle.

Unlike the vibrant toucans and boisterous parrots that grace our rainforests, the Black-capped Petrel is a creature of mystery. They spend most of their lives soaring over the vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea, only returning to land under the cloak of darkness to breed.

A Ghostly Visitor

These long-winged birds (wingspan up to 37 inches!) have a distinctive black cap, often extending over their eyes, contrasting with their grey-brown back and white underparts. Their arrival at the mountain nesting sites coincides with the cool nights of November, and their haunting calls – a drawn-out “awwww” that crescendos and sometimes ends in a donkey-like bray – echo through the darkness. This nocturnal behavior earned them the diablotín nickname, fueled by the eerie calls and nocturnal visits.

A Life on the Wing

While sightings at our mountain retreat are rare, their presence speaks to the vast diversity of Costa Rica’s ecosystems. These birds are masters of the ocean, spending their days gliding effortlessly on air currents, using their keen eyesight to snatch squid and other delicacies from the surface. Their ability to travel long distances is impressive – they range across the Caribbean, reaching as far north as the waters off the eastern United States.

A Fight for Survival

Sadly, the Black-capped Petrel faces an uncertain future. Once abundant, their numbers plummeted due to overhunting and the introduction of mammalian predators like rats and mongooses. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their nesting sites and raise awareness for this unique bird.

A Song of Hope

While you might not see a Black-capped Petrel soaring over our mountain lodge, their presence reminds us of the interconnectedness of our planet. The pristine mountain slopes they choose for breeding are a vital part of their survival story. Here, at our retreat, we strive to create a haven for all Costa Rican wildlife, and the Black-capped Petrel, though seldom seen, is a vital part of the tapestry of life that surrounds us.

Listen to the Night

The next time you spend a cool evening at our retreat, take a moment to listen to the nighttime symphony. You might just hear the otherworldly call of the Black-capped Petrel, a fleeting echo from the vast ocean carried on the mountain breeze.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica